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Lessons learned register template

What worked, what didn't and what to change next time. Free download in Excel.

CM-TPL-CLS-04Close phaseExcelFree
Download Excel (.xlsx)
Free download

Download the lessons learned register template

Captures what worked, what did not and what to change next time throughout the migration, and tracks whether each lesson is actually applied.

Download Excel (.xlsx)

Free to use and adapt. Document ID CM-TPL-CLS-04, version 1.0, November 2026.

What's inside

What the template includes

Sheet: Lessons

16 columns, with dropdowns, formulas and 7 example rows:

IDDate loggedPhaseCategoryTypeWhat happenedImpact on projectRoot causeRecommendation for next timeImpactEffort to applyPriorityApplies toAction ownerAction statusRaised by (role)
How to use it

How to use this template

  1. Log lessons as they happen (after each wave, dry run and cutover), not only at the end of the project.
  2. Write the recommendation as an action someone could take on the next project.
  3. Set Impact and Effort; Priority calculates automatically to show quick wins.
  4. Assign an owner for every lesson that needs action and review status at the post-implementation review.
  5. Use the Applies to column to send lessons to the right place: this organisation, your templates and methods, or a vendor.
Built to a standard

Ready to share with your steering committee

  • Branded cover or instructions page with document ID and version
  • QR code linking to the latest version, and a Code128 barcode for your document register
  • Document control, approval block and a clear disclaimer
  • Example rows written for real migration projects, which you replace with your own
FAQ

Questions about this template

Is the lessons learned register template free?

Yes. Download it in Excel and adapt it for your organisation. No sign-up is needed.

Can I use it in Google Sheets or Google Docs?

Yes. Upload the file to Google Drive and open it with Google Sheets or Docs. Dropdowns and most formulas carry across; check conditional formatting after converting.

Can I remove the Cloud-Migrations branding?

Yes. Replace the logo and footer with your own. Keep the disclaimer in mind: the template is general guidance and needs adapting to your project.

How do I know I have the latest version?

Scan the QR code on the cover or instructions sheet. It opens this page, which always links to the current version.